Taekwondo, the Korean martial art and Korea’s national sport, is full of values and self-discipline. We spoke to 5th Degree (Master) black belt in Taekwondo, Robert Scott, who is also a rental broker at Keller Williams Realty in Cambridge, Massachusetts about how he uses Taekwondo to close rental deals.
Scott, who has practiced Taekwondo for over twenty years, said that some of the strongest values exercised are self-respect, self-control and patience. He actively uses these disciplines in his work life to close rental deals and build a relationship with renters.
Patience
When sparring in Taekwondo, Scott said, “You have to have the patience to stop and watch the other person and size him or her up, and see exactly what they’re going to do so you can counter it.”
In selling rentals, you use those same techniques when dealing with prospective renters. “You size up your client, and listen and realize what type of property they’re looking for. You also need the patience to listen to hear what they want,” he said.
To find the best match for renters, you need to listen to know what they’re looking for to find the optimal property match. If you choose properties that aren’t what they want, they may go look for other professional assistance.
Self-control
Marketing and selling rental properties isn’t an easy job. Sometimes, you have to deal with challenging people who may not always see things the way you do. Scott said, “You can get very angry when selling rentals.”
However, Scott said you must use self-control to manage your anger and emotions. Don’t allow yourself to get frustrated, even when you’re working with difficult people. When you’re in control of emotions, your calm patience will help you act professionally in an otherwise frustrating time.
Self-respect
Professionals in the rental real estate industry don’t necessarily have the best reputation. “We’re the 2nd least trusted professionals out there,” Scott said.
However, professionals in the industry need to realize that reputation in the industry is important, and it’s not about making a quick buck by any means necessary. There is value and significance to becoming a reputable rental broker. It can be your opportunity for a future sale.
Scott uses self-respect to keep his clients coming back. He doesn’t allow his image to be tainted and is honest with his clients. A RentJuice study found that 40 percent of renters want an honest broker over all other qualities. Scott wants to be that honest broker.
“I want that client over and over again, whether to rent or buy,” Scott said, “If you nurture your client, they’re going to come back to you and keep coming back. They’ll want a trusted realtor to guide them.”
Scott said that the majority of his sales come from his former renters. Although it’s easier to close a lease with a renter however you need to, and then forgetting about them, but it’s better to take the long route. Building a relationship that keeps your professional integrity up requires more time, but will have a bigger payout if you exercise the patience.
